Want to change up your living spaces without making a major commitment? If so, both peel and stick wallpaper and contact paper have become popular options for renters and homeowners alike. While these products might seem interchangeable, they actually have very distinct characteristics and applications methods that set them apart.
Understanding the Basics
Contact paper and peel and stick wallpaper both fall into the category of adhesive decorative coverings, but that is where their similarities end. Contact paper, also known as self-adhesive or peel-and-stick paper, is a typically a thin, flexible piece of vinyl with an adhesive backing typically made. It comes in various colors, patterns, and textures, making it a great choice for different applications. The name “contact paper” itself describes its purpose – it makes contact with and adheres to surfaces without using additional adhesives.
Peel and stick wallpaper is considered wallpaper, but it has been designed with a self-adhesive backing for easier application. Traditional wallpaper requires paste or water activation, while peel and stick varieties offer a more user-friendly approach that shares some similarities with contact paper.
Material Composition and Durability
The materials used to make these two products is what makes them different from each other. Contact paper is usually made from vinyl or plastic, or sometimes a combination of the two to improve its durability and quality. This composition is what makes contact paper water-resistant and easy to clean, which explains its popularity for kitchen and bathroom applications.
Wallpaper, including peel and stick, used to be made from paper or a mix of paper and fabric. However, modern manufacturing has made it to where vinyl can now be used in wallpaper production, increasing its water resistance and durability. This change has blurred the lines between the two products, though differences in thickness and quality often remain noticeable.
Intended Applications
Contact paper is usually used to cover things like shelves or countertops. Since it is thinner than wallpaper it is a great choice for projects requiring more flexibility. While contact paper can be used to cover large areas, most people only use it for smaller projects.
Peel and stick wallpaper, as the name suggests, is meant to be used on walls. The product is designed to take into account how much wall space it will cover, which affects everything from the size of the pattern to the strength of the adhesive. While contact paper can be used on walls, it may not provide the same finished look or longevity as products specifically designed for walls, like wallpaper.
Installation Process
Both products have a pretty straightforward application process compared to traditional wallpaper, but there are some things worth noting. Contact paper is generally considered easier to apply. You simply peel off the backing and stick it onto a clean surface. And since its thinner it allows for easier handling during installation, though its thinness can make it more prone to bubbles and wrinkles if not applied carefully.
Peel and stick wallpaper installation, while still easier than hanging traditional wallpaper, requires more precision. The application process involves measuring, cutting, and carefully aligning patterns while avoiding bubbles. Tasks that most people find nearly impossible to do on their own, so they seek professional assistance. The thicker material can be more forgiving but it’s also more difficult to maneuver around corners or in tight spaces.
Cost and Accessibility
As a budget-friendly choice, contact paper is often used for smaller projects or as a temporary decorating solution. The lower price is due to the way it is made and the materials used. Contact paper is popular with college students and renters who want to make their spaces their own without spending a lot of money.
Peel and stick wallpaper, while more affordable than traditional wallpaper, is usually more expensive than contact paper. This price difference is because it’s made specifically for wall application, uses higher quality materials, and tends to offer more sophisticated patterns and finishes.
The Right Choice for Your Project
When deciding between contact paper and peel and stick wallpaper, always keep in mind what you are using it for.
- Contact paper is a great choice for short-term, reasonably priced fixes for shelves, countertops, and small wall spaces.
- Peel and stick wallpaper is the better choice for bigger wall areas where you want a more professional look, even though it costs more.
- For high-moisture areas, vinyl-based options of either product will work the best.
- For rental properties where easy removal is necessary, both products will work, but contact paper typically requires less effort to remove.
Whether you’re a college student looking to brighten up your dorm room or a renter wanting to personalize your home without losing your deposit, knowing the differences between these two products can help you get the best results for your space and budget.
